Gloom: You’re bored with studying in the same libraries whose walls are making you go stir-crazy.
Bloom: Find a new, secluded, special spot-type of place outside to study. Staring at nature, whether it’s cherry blossoms or even just a basic field of grass, rather than the same wooden shelves lined with the same volumes, has a physical effect that makes it easier to breathe. You feel less claustrophobic both spatially and creatively as a change of scenery allows you to gain a new perspective on whatever you’re working on. Some of my favorite spots on campus that invite sitting and pondering are Ishi Court inside Dwinelle Hall and the benches in front of the Campanile. Sometimes, even just sitting on my apartment’s fire escape while working and letting the breeze blow over my face encourages me to take a deep breath.
Gloom: You’re extremely overwhelmed by your mounting to-do list.
Bloom: Pick a playlist and walk. Rather than taking the bus to get around campus, I’d highly suggest walking to your destination instead because, in my experience, walking is one of the best forms of a brain break, akin to a complete factory reset. Not only do you feel healthier and refreshed just by moving your body, but walking without any thoughts of schoolwork to distract you prompts you to actually look around. As corny as this sounds, you start experiencing life like you’re in a movie, your soundtrack blasting in the background. You’re able to solely take in your surroundings, place yourself within them and start thinking about things other than school as you let whatever music’s playing evoke the various emotions you’re wanting to feel.
Gloom: Those post-winter feelings of ugliness come up.
Bloom: Put intentional effort into getting ready in the morning. Even though sweatpants are so comfortable and you may have to give up those extra 30 minutes of sleep, a planned outfit and the feeling of being “put together” can seriously boost your confidence. As the weather starts to warm up, trade the heaviness of those sweaters and sweatpants in for light and airy tops, shorts, sunglasses and sandals. I personally feel revitalized when my wardrobe looks less frumpy and allows me to feel the energizing sun on my skin — it puts a smile on my face and motivates me to tackle the day as I strut around campus.
Gloom: You’re slumping and feeling uninspired.
Bloom: Try studying at a cafe. Sometimes, making a day out of studying transforms the distressing task into an event I actually look forward to. Some of my favorite cafes, such as Asha Tea House, elaichi co. and Tea Hut, are just far enough from campus to make you feel like you’re getting away from campus for a bit. To make this feel like more of an outing, I’d recommend choosing to walk there rather than ride the bus, so you can literally and metaphorically take some time to smell the roses. Upon arrival, these cafes have lots of natural light that not only brightens the atmosphere but also your mindset toward studying, making for an all-around illuminating experience.
Gloom: Your whole life is starting to feel like class, clubs and homework.
Bloom: Treat yourself to something every day. This can range from getting yourself a matcha to making time to try cooking a new meal or setting aside an hour before bed to read a book or watch a movie. Basically, anything you associate with a break or something exciting that gives you a little boost should be incorporated into your week. These simple pleasures in life become treats you can look forward to every day to keep your momentum up.
While this push toward the end of the year is one of the toughest academic times, we shouldn’t be so tortured over it that we take the warmth and spontaneity of spring for granted. We should celebrate this transition out of hibernation and embrace a blooming renewal of both the Earth and ourselves.